This article reviews basic information for taking an online exam using Respondus Lockdown Browser + Webcam.

Overview

If your instructor requires the use of Respondus Lockdown Browser + Monitor, it's to protect you and the integrity of the exam.

Some reasons for online proctoring include:

• Educationally, online proctoring can help ensure you are prepared and have learned the material well enough to earn a passing grade within the test parameters, and without notes or working with others.
• Logistically, some classes won’t transfer easily to larger institutions if online proctoring is not used.
• For fairness, online proctoring can help ensure that all students are working within the same integrity guidelines.

• Check your course syllabus or ask your instructor for details about how online proctoring will work in your course
• Review the information below for general information about online proctoring with Respondus Lockdown Browser

Getting Started:

• Watch this short video to get a basic understanding of LockDown Browser and the webcam feature.  

• Read this Quick Start Guide  for details on how to use these tools.

• Read this Article for details on how to prevent D2L from "timing you out" of your exam when taking it on the LockDown Browser.

• Read this Quick Start Guide for details on how to setup a second camera if your test requires one.

• Run a Second Camera Device Check to ensure your second camera view is setup correctly if your test requires one.

Getting help when taking an online exam that requires LockDown Browser + Webcam:

If you get stuck with a technical issue when you are taking a test with LockDown Broswer + Webcam you can get assistance by submitting a ticket to Respondus Technical Support.

• Submit a ticket by visiting the Respondus Technical Support Submit a Ticket page.
  • To make sure you get your issue resolved as quickly as possible please fill out the support ticket with as much information related to your issue as possible.
    • For the Email Address field please enter your Normandale email address this is the email the support agent will contact you at.
    • For the Name field please enter your name the support agent should address you by.
    • For the Role drop-down menu please select from the drop-down menu "Student" if you are a student, "Faculty" if you are faculty, or "Staff" if you are staff.
    • For the Product Name drop-down menu please select from the drop-down menu the Lockdown Browser option that matches the system software that your computer is running for example if you are using a MacBook you would select "Lockdown Browser for Mac".
    • For the version field locate if possible the version of Lockdown Browser your currently running and enter it in the field.
      • If you are unsure where to locate the version information use these instructions: For Windows, click "i" in the LockDown Browser toolbar. For Mac, click the "Globe" icon in the toolbar.
    • For the Institution Name field please enter "Normandale Community College". 
    • For the Learning Management System drop down menu please select from the drop-down menu "D2L Brightspace".
    • For the LMS Web URL field please copy and paste this URL "https://normandale.learn.minnstate.edu".
    • For the Priority drop-down menu please select from the drop-down menu the level of urgency the issue is with Low being low priority and Urgent being high priority.
    • In the Subject field please enter a short but descriptive title of the issue you are having. 
    • In the Description please enter a full descriptive outline of the issue you are having include any error messages and error codes you have received to best help the support agent in resolving your issue.
    • In the Attachments upload section please upload any pictures, screenshots, and/or files related to the issue you are having.
  • Then once you are ready and you have filled out the full ticket please select the button labeled "Submit" in blue text.     
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When taking an online exam that requires LockDown Browser + Webcam:

Follow any specific guidelines provided by your instructor, which may include clarification on the list below:

• Ensure you are in a location where you won't be interrupted 

• Turn off all other devices (e.g. tablets, phones, second computers) and place them outside of your reach 

• Clear your desk of all external materials not permitted — books, papers, other devices 

• Before starting the text, know how much time is available for it, and that you’ve allotted sufficient time to complete it 

• Remain at your computer for the duration of the test 

If your instructor requires a "2nd camera," here are some frequently asked questions:

What devices work as a second camera?

Students need a second device that can scan QR codes. Most iOS and Android mobile devices are supported. Some computers may also work if the browser, camera, and QR reader are compatible. You can test your device at www.respondus.com/camera2

Is an app required on the second device?

No. An app does not need to be installed on the second device.

Can a USB webcam connected to the primary computer be used as a second camera?

No. The second camera must run on a separate device, not the same computer.

Learn more about the 2nd camera option here.

Can I test my second camera to make sure it is working properly?

Yes. You can test your second camera by using the Second Camera Device Check.

Visit this page to start the Second Camera Device Check.

To produce a good webcam recording:

Follow any specific guidelines provided by your instructor, which may include clarification on the list below:

• Avoid wearing baseball caps or hats with brims. 

• If you will be wearing a face or head covering for religious reasons, let your instructor know prior to the exam.

• Ensure your computer or tablet is on a firm surface (a desk or table). Do NOT have the computer on your lap, a bed or other surface where the device (or you) are likely to move. 

• If using a built-in webcam, avoid tilting the screen after the webcam setup is complete. 

• Take the exam in a well-lit room and avoid backlighting, such as sitting with your back to a window . 

• Remember that LockDown Browser will prevent you from accessing other websites or applications (unless allowed by the instructor)

• You will be unable to exit the test until all questions are completed and submitted. 

Device requirements:  

• You will need a computer on which you are allowed to download the Respondus software.  

  • Click here for the most up-to-date device requirements

• The webcam can be built into your computer or can be the type that plugs in with a USB cable.  

• You may use a Chromebook with these instructions. 

• You may use an iPad with these instructions. 

• If you do not have the appropriate device, you may come to a Normandale campus computer lab, or to the Make-up Testing Center (Room L1751). Or, contact your instructor for further instructions. 

• For help with installation or other questions, contact the Normandale ITS Service Desk. 

Privacy and Security:

All remote proctoring services approved to use by the colleges and universities of Minnesota State are contractually obligated to comply with Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (MGDPA). 

• By using the remote proctoring tool, you are agreeing to the software’s Terms and Conditions here: Respondus Lockdown Browser + Monitor terms of service for students
• Respondus does not include live proctoring through your camera or screen – no one is watching you take the exam.
• Instructors (and instructors only) have access to your recordings after the exam is over, should they need to review them. 

Watch this video to help you prepare!